Front Line

What goals and desires do you have?

A dispute arose among the disciples as to which one of them was to be regarded as the greatest. But Jesus said to them, “The kings of the Gentiles lord it over them; and those in authority over them are called benefactors. But not so with you; rather the greatest among you must become like the youngest, and the leader like one who serves. For who is greater, the one who is at the table or the one who serves? Is it not the one at the table? But I am among you as one who serves. “You are those who have stood by me in my trials; and I confer on you, just as my Father has conferred on me, a kingdom, so that you may eat and drink at my table in my kingdom, and you will sit on thrones judging the twelve tribes of Israel.” - Luke 22:24-30

In today's Gospel reading, Jesus sets the norms of the day on their head, telling his disciples the way we determine greatness is all wrong.

The one who is being served is generally viewed as greater than the one who serves, but in God's view, the opposite is true.

Jesus showed his disciples that it is better to be a servant to all than to be the one who is exalted and praised by others.

If we think about it, there are many ways to serve others.  The job we do may be one.  People in the military, public servants, public office, hospital workers, and restaurant workers are all in careers dedicated to service.

Some of these jobs we hold in esteem while others are not so glamorous.

During the pandemic, the workers we valued most were those who were on the front lines, helping keep people alive.  

Those who sacrifice their own lives for others are considered great.  It is when we fear for our lives that we realize how important their work is for all.

So, Jesus wants us to think that way always.  We should choose to be that kind of great.  Helping others and putting them before us, we show God that we understand the example He set for us in Jesus.

But of course, when things go back to normal and we are no longer afraid, we tend to take them for granted, don't we.

More to come...